Removing vinyl lettering from stern??

[Sovereign85]

Just wondering if I can use a hairdryer to warm up the old lettering used for the name of the boat so I can replace with new lettering.

Was not sure if it might damage the fiberglass in anyway???

Thanks for any input.

[mariner36bob]

Not at all.


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[Greenhand]

Hair dryer to warm it and scrape rite plastic razor blade to scrape it.

I actually prefer a hair dryer for most tasks because I can get the warming effect without worrying about the damage that a heat gun might cause.

[oldragbaggers]

A hairdryer is perfect. If you use a heat gun be sure and put it on low, or don't linger in one spot with it very long. I have never had it damage the fiberglass, but it will literally melt the vinyl lettering and make a mess, plus you can heat up your fingers pretty darn good. Lots of experience with this. Ouch.

[Amapola]

I used a hairdryer and a plastic scraper then used Goo-Gone to remove the sticky residue.

[Sovereign85]

Thanks everyone. I've been busy with minor cosmetic improvements till we get her to the yard for a hull makeover.

[travellerw]

You might find you don't need a hairdryer. I did a ton of 5 year old lettering with just a plastic scrapper. They used Acetone to clean up the residue and area before reapplying stickers.

[StuM]

Originally Posted by Amapola

I used a hairdryer and a plastic scraper then used Goo-Gone to remove the sticky residue.

WD40 does a good job on the sticky residue. Anyone know if it affects gelcoat?

[oldragbaggers]

Originally Posted by StuM

WD40 does a good job on the sticky residue. Anyone know if it affects gelcoat?

When we remove lettering it's usually because we're getting ready to paint. I would be reluctant to use an oily substance for removal just because I'd be afraid it would affect the paint adhesion.

[Ulstue]

Last time i have to do this I had the same plan, but it was then very easy just with a plastic scrapper.

Perhaps a hair dryer could help, and the risk for the gelcoat is low. But yes, if you aim too long and too hot on the same spot, there could be a yellowing or browning.

[Cathie]

Originally Posted by Sovereign85

Just wondering if I can use a hairdryer to warm up the old lettering used for the name of the boat so I can replace with new lettering.

Was not sure if it might damage the fiberglass in anyway???

Thanks for any input.

My experience is that hairdryers work well with no problems. Use a plastic scrapper then get the glue off with GOOGONE.

[exMaggieDrum]

The active ingredient in GooGone is acetone.

[Krilleonnova]

If it is gelcoat use spray on Owen cleaner.
If it paint try somewhere else first .

[Grateful]

Denatured alcohol works for getting rid of the goo.

[flyingnut40]

If you find the heat methods above challenging you can go to UAP auto store and buy a pinstripe stripping wheel for use in your drill. I believe its made by 3M and it works very well and even pressing hard has never damaged the paint on any car I have used them on. It also removes the GOO.
The wheel is made of beige rubber and lasts a long time. Keep it out of the sun however.

My boat had stick on aluminum letters (yuck... tacky) and I used it on fiberglass and if you pressed really hard you might get a bit of yellowing that you could polish out but that would be highly unlikely.

D